Source · Select Committees · Business and Trade Committee
Recommendation 35
35
Accepted
Paragraph: 203
Conduct a review into jobcentre reform and alternative employment services for over-50s workers.
Recommendation
We recommend that the Government conducts a review into the future reform of jobcentres and to assess whether a public employment service offers better solutions in alternative settings (as well as online) that will improve the accessibility and quality of employment advice for people over 50.
Government Response Summary
The government states it is promoting returnerships pathways (SWAPs, skills bootcamps, apprenticeships) for the over 50s through Jobcentre Plus and Work Coaches, and will monitor uptake. It does not commit to conducting a review into the future reform of jobcentres or alternative settings for employment advice.
Paragraph Reference:
203
Government Response
Accepted
HM Government
Accepted
The Government is promoting returnerships pathways (SWAPS, skills bootcamps and apprenticeships) through the DfE’s Skills for Life campaign and through Jobcentre Plus communications channels to increase awareness of these options amongst the over 50s. When engaging with 50+ claimants, Work Coaches will consider the suitability of referral to Returnerships provision as part of the employment and skills assessment (triage) offered to all claimants, referring those who would benefit from this help to locally available provision support. By providing additional funding and highlighting this as an offer to people currently out of work, the government is taking steps to drive down inactivity and boost our economy. We will continue to monitor the uptake of apprenticeships and related programmes, including by those aged over 50. Levels of apprenticeship starts are subject to demand by employers who decide which apprenticeships they offer and when, as well as individuals choosing to apply for apprenticeship vacancies which are open to people of all ages and backgrounds.